Tajudeen Lawal, The Chairman, FCAIB Governing Board
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has appointed Sooko Tajudeen Olaniyi Lawal as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan (FCAIB), marking a significant step in the administration’s push to strengthen leadership across federal tertiary institutions.
The appointment is widely seen as a strategic move to deepen institutional governance, foster academic growth, and support Nigeria’s drive for food security through agricultural innovation. Lawal’s wealth of public service experience and proven leadership track record is expected to bring renewed focus and direction to the college.
In a statement issued on behalf of the staff and students, the Provost of FCAIB, Professor Jonathan Atungwu, congratulated the new board chairman and commended the federal government for what he described as a “visionary decision.”
“Hon. Sooko Tajudeen Lawal’s appointment comes at a critical time in the evolution of our college,” Prof. Atungwu said. “His leadership is expected to accelerate progress in research, infrastructural development, and the delivery of quality education in agricultural sciences.”
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Born into the respected Lawal family of Ile-Ife, Sooko Tajudeen Olaniyi Lawal is the son of the late Alhaji Yusuf Alarape Lawal and Alhaja Sinat Awero Lawal, both of blessed memory. A distinguished alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Economics and later a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the same institution.
Lawal began his career as an Account Clerk with DAPCEL Ventures in Lagos, and later served as Business Manager at Taofik Nigeria Limited, Festac Town. However, it was in public service and politics that he made his mark.
His political journey took shape during the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola in Osun State, where he served as Executive Secretary of Ife East Local Government. His humility and people-centered approach earned him the affectionate nickname “Eniafe”—a Yoruba phrase meaning “a person we love.” He later rose to become Commissioner for Home Affairs under Governor Gboyega Oyetola, where he made notable contributions toward improving citizens’ welfare and community cohesion.
Lawal’s leadership credentials further expanded within the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he served as Deputy Chairman of the party in Osun State. He later acted as the State Chairman before being confirmed as the substantive Chairman—a role in which he has continued to promote unity and grassroots participation.
Recognitions and Honours
Over the years, Lawal has received numerous accolades for his commitment to excellence and public service. These include the Nigerian Local Governments Award for Excellent Performance, the NULGE State of Osun Award for Distinguished Executive Secretary, the Searchlight Merit Foundation Award for Exemplary Leadership, and the Strong Rooms of Ideas Award for Quality and Purposeful Leadership at OAU.
His appointment to lead the Governing Board of FCAIB is being celebrated across political, academic, and professional circles as a move that will significantly boost the college’s standing as a centre of excellence in agricultural training and research.
Sooko Tajudeen Olaniyi Lawal is happily married and continues to serve as a mentor and role model to many across Nigeria.
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